Salomon is taking gravel running off the beaten path

Back in the late 19th century, Robert Louis Stevenson definitely wasn’t running gravel paths – but his quote: "The important thing is not the destination, but the journey" feels like it was made for this sport. In gravel running, the focus isn’t on performance or hitting goals.

Unlike traditional and trail runners, gravel runners chase experiences – discovery, sensation, enjoyment, and the
freedom to run without worrying about time or pace.

It’s no surprise more runners are turning to gravel today. Tired of performance tracking apps and repetitive routes, these runners crave variety and the joy of the unexpected.

Their mindset? Go at your own pace. "Let yourself get carried away, stop to take photos or go to a café," says Christian Meier, a former pro cyclist and now a Salomon gravel runner. For him and many others, Salomon offers the perfect shoes: rugged enough for any surface, yet comfortable enough for a free-spirited approach to running.

Halfway between running through an urban maze and mountain trail running, gravel running is
carried out on asphalt, rocky ground and dirt paths. It’s this mix of styles that attracts people.

"For most runners, running shouldn’t be seen as a chore or a constraint, but a way to disconnect
and live in the moment," says Guillaume Sanchez, a Michelin-starred chef, Salomon ambassador and gravel runner. He appreciates the simplicity: "A good pair of shoes is enough to make this experience more intuitive because you don’t have to worry about what’s better suited to your route."

The minimalist gear is a major advantage. As a hybrid between road and trail running, gravel running offers a smooth transition. David Jou, an endurance sport expert and outdoor event organiser, puts it well: "Unlike road running, gravel running allows runners to experiment with unique and interesting surfaces without having to commit to a more demanding sport like trail running. It’s the natural evolution of road running."

What truly sets gravel running apart is its strong sense of community. While each runner moves individually, the experience is still shared. "Gravel runners form a tight-knit and supportive group that values community and responsibility," says David Jou. "They are resilient, adaptable and ready to face all types of conditions with a positive and adventurous attitude."

Julien Botas, another Salomon ambassador, agrees: "The gravel running community aims to share the joy of running without distance or terrain constraints." A professional drummer and passionate explorer, he describes his own approach: "I like to feel free, with no preparation and no set route. I put on my shoes and go where my feet take me." This desire to discover both yourself and new landscapes is what drives gravel runners, and Salomon is there with its range of gear to transform each run into a powerful adventure.